PUB owners across Worcestershire have been warned by police to ensure opportunist criminals cannot gain access to their private property.

On Tuesday, £4,000 of cash and jewellery valued at £3,000 was stolen from the upstairs living quarters of the Defford Arms, Defford, near Pershore, at about 1.20pm. It follows two other thefts - one at the Robin Hood in Worcester Road, Wychbold, at 9.20pm on Saturday June 9 when £3,000 was taken.

Another incident occurred at the Railway Inn, Wells Road, Malvern, when £750 was taken between 6.30pm and midnight on Sunday June 10.

A police spokesman said: "We are keeping an open mind as to whether any of the incidents involved the same group. Nevertheless, all three were carried out by resourceful criminals with sufficient knowledge and ability to gain access to private quarters at public houses in south Worcestershire and locate substantial amounts of money and valuable personal belongings.

"We again urge all publicans to think closely about security and make any up-grades they feel necessary to enhance security."

If anyone saw anything suspicious they are asked to contact police on 08457 444 888, quoting 915S/090607 for the Robin Hood incident, 2S/100607 for the Railway Inn or 292S/190607 for the Defford Arms.

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.